ABT e-Line has partnered with WiTricity to commercialise the introduction of wireless charging for electric vehicles in Europe, starting with the Volkswagen ID.4 in 2024.
The two companies will work together to accelerate the adoption of wireless charging for electric vehicles (EVs) by offering Europe’s first aftermarket solution with this capability.
ABT e-Line will initially upgrade the VW ID.4 to support wireless charging from WiTricity, with availability targeted for early 2024.
The company then plans to expand to additional EV models, including the Audi e-Tron GT and Porsche Taycan.
Eric Plekkepoel, CEO of ABT e-Line, said:ABT e-Line’s strong track record in customising vehicles to meet the stringent demands of discerning customers fits perfectly with the leading wireless charging technology from WiTricity.
WiTricity’s magnetic resonance technology allows drivers to charge their EV by parking over a pad. The vehicle is then recharged at the same speed and efficiency as plugging into Level 2 equipment.
Throughout independent market research, such as TideWatch’s survey of 1,000 vehicle owners and Qualtrics’ survey of 1,053 American adults, a large proportion of consumers (96%) indicated an interest in wireless EV charging. Respondents generally ranked this capability as higher in desirability than other options such as assisted parking or autonomous driving features.
ABT e-Line consequently plans to meet this demand by offering new EVs that can access wireless charging points across Europe.
Alex Gruzen, CEO, WiTricity said:We’re thrilled to see the simplicity and convenience of wireless charging expand to vehicles in Europe through this partnership with one of the leading companies in automotive upgrade and aftermarket solutions. Our proven, automotive-grade charging solutions will help address many of the electrification challenges by making charging as easy as parking.
EV owners tend to count charging as the key drawback to ownership, and potential owners may see it as a reason to delay purchase. Charging with a cord or cable is inconvenient, as they can be heavy, bulky or trip hazards. And that’s before you add arms full of kids or backpacks, rainy weather or snowbanks. Wireless charging removes those inconveniences, so owners can simply park and charge.
